Red Sox "In Touch" With Free Agent Starter After Career-Best Season

The Boston Red Sox are reportedly showing interest in free agent pitcher Jakob Junis, with spring training on the horizon.

Junis, who previously pitched for the San Francisco Giants, is coming off a noteworthy 2023 season where he achieved a career-low ERA of 3.87 across 40 appearances.

This improvement in performance, particularly with Andrew Bailey as his pitching coach—a relationship that could continue if Junis joins the Red Sox, has put him on Boston's radar.

Jakob Junis could be an interesting fit in the Red Sox bullpen.

During the 2023 campaign, he posted a career-low 3.87 ERA in 40 games. Junis also struck out 96 batters.

pic.twitter.com/SZnueABcXa

— Jamie Gatlin (@JamieGatlin17) January 28, 2024

Notably, Junis has a family connection to the organization, with his brother Noah recently becoming the bullpen coach for the Worcester Red Sox, adding a personal dimension to the potential acquisition​.

Junis' appeal extends beyond familial ties; his versatility on the mound makes him a valuable asset.

Last season, he demonstrated significant improvement after the first month, finishing with a 3.36 ERA in his final 33 games.

His pitching arsenal, especially his slider, which he used over 60% of the time, has been particularly effective.

This adaptability and effectiveness in various roles—both as a starter and a reliever—make him an attractive option for teams looking to bolster their pitching depth​.

Interest in Junis is not limited to the Red Sox; the Philadelphia Phillies are also in the mix.

Free agent pitchers the Red Sox remain in touch with (via @ChrisCotillo):

🔺Jakob Junis
🔺Ryne Stanek
🔺Codi Heuer pic.twitter.com/eLgSCtcySc

— Boston Sports Gordo (@BOSSportsGordo) January 28, 2024

Both teams see Junis' potential to contribute in multiple capacities, whether in the rotation or the bullpen.

His prior connection with Red Sox pitching coach Andrew Bailey, under whom Junis thrived during his tenure with the Giants, could be a significant factor in his decision-making process.

The 31-year-old's career trajectory, marked by a steady evolution from a 29th-round pick to a major league contributor with a knack for strikeouts and a formidable slider, underscores his resilience and potential value to interested teams​. Photo Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports